Developer Langtree will deliver 185,000 sq ft of industrial space at a Liverpool city region site in a multi-million pound project. Tony McDonough reports
Halton Council has appointed developer Langtree to transform a 21-acre plot of land in Runcorn into an 185,000 sq ft industrial scheme.
Langtree has identified four separate development sites on the last as Astmoor. The area had been set aside to support the construction of the £600m New Mersey Gateway Bridge. It was completed in 2017.
It is planning a phased development with start on site targeted for the second half of next year. Langtree is the operator of a number of sites across the region including Sci-Tech Daresbury which is also in Halton.
John Downes from Langtree said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Halton’s regeneration ambitions. This will build on the huge economic impact brought about by the construction of the New Mersey Gateway. We will bring our design, funding and market expertise to bear to ensure a successful scheme.”
He added the aim was to build on the borough’s successful blend of SMEs and inward investment. It will do this through the correct mix of unit sizes and types. The Astmoor site is now seeing significant new investment due to its strategic location next to the new bridge.
“The council is determined to maximise the economic outputs generated by the Mersey Gateway for the benefit of its residents,” explained Mr Downes. “The borough already has a robust SME sector underpinned by a whole raft of blue-chip industrial PLCs that engage with the local supply chain.
“Our partnership with the council is targeted at providing new, well-designed and well-managed products that will add to the existing industrial offer. The scheme will deliver more choice and quality to the market, whilst ensuring wherever possible that the main economic and social impacts are felt locally.”
Work is now under way to appoint the design and planning team for the project. The appointment sees Langtree further add to its growing workload. Detailed design work now under way for its 1m sq ft Parkside scheme in Newton-le-Willows.
Cllr Dave Thompson, Halton Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and major projects, added: “It’s vitally important that we ensure that our economy remains competitive and able to attract and support businesses.
“Providing a varied, high quality property offer is key to this and we will continue to drive investment in the borough through the strategic use of our land assets.”